William Waldegrave (Suffolk MP, died 1554) facts for kids

Sir William Waldegrave (born August 2, 1507 – died May 2, 1554) was an English soldier and a Member of Parliament. This means he was a lawmaker in England.

Sir William Waldegrave's Early Life

Sir William Waldegrave was born into a wealthy family in Suffolk, England. He was the oldest son of Sir George Waldegrave and Anne Drury. He grew up at his grandfather's house. When he was 20, both his father and grandfather passed away. This meant William inherited a large amount of land and money. Before his father died, he arranged for William to marry a rich heiress from Suffolk.

Serving the King and Country

After inheriting his family's wealth, William Waldegrave took on important roles in his local area. He also spent time at the royal court and served in the military.

Becoming a Knight

King Henry VIII made William a knight during the coronation of Anne Boleyn. This was a great honor. William was also in charge of making sure people in Suffolk took the Oath of Succession. This oath was a promise to accept the King's new marriage and his children as heirs to the throne.

Loyalty to the Crown

William was known for being very loyal to the King. In 1536, a powerful leader named Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk believed William would help stop any rebellions in Suffolk.

Military Service

William Waldegrave was a soldier. In 1542, he fought in a war against Scotland under the Duke of Norfolk. Two years later, he led 60 of his own soldiers in a campaign in France.

Becoming a Member of Parliament

His experience as a soldier helped him get elected to the English Parliament in 1545. His uncle, Sir William Drury, who was a sheriff, might have helped him get elected. Even though he wasn't elected again, he was considered for Parliament in 1553.

Supporting Queen Mary I

After King Edward VI died, there was a struggle for the throne. William Waldegrave was first thought to support Lady Jane Grey. However, when Mary called him to her side, he joined her. He helped her successfully become Queen. Later, he listened to the accusations against those who had supported Lady Jane Grey in Suffolk.

Sir William Waldegrave's Family

William Waldegrave married Juliana, the daughter of Sir John Raysnford from Essex. They had four children together:

• Dorothy Waldegrave, who married Sir John Spring of Lavenham
• Margaret Waldegrave
• Mary Waldegrave
• Sir William Waldegrave, who later married Elizabeth and then Grizelda

Death

In late 1554, Sir William Waldegrave visited Calais, which was then part of English-controlled France. He became sick there and passed away on December 12, 1554.